Traveling Over the Holidays?
By Andrea Rudy (consultant: BC Renal)
What to keep in mind to keep the holidays healthy
For many of us, travelling is an important part to our quality of life. It allows us to experience diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives, while enjoying the beauty of nature, history, and places around the world. It allows us to visit family members who may be near or abroad. Those with kidney disease, however, face unique challenges and may hesitate to embark on a journey. But with thoughtful planning, both comfort and safety can be ensured throughout the trip. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when preparing to travel.
Consult Your Healthcare Team
Before planning a trip, schedule a consultation with your healthcare team. Inform them about your travel plans and seek advice on how to manage your kidney health during the journey. They can provide personalized recommendations, adjust medications and laboratory testing if necessary, and offer guidance on potential challenges you might face.
Plan Ahead for Medications and Supplies
Ensure you have an ample supply of necessary medications and medical supplies for the duration of your trip. Pack medications in their original containers, and carry a list of your prescriptions, dosages, and your healthcare provider’s contact information. It’s also wise to carry extra supplies in case of unexpected delays or loss.
Research Medical Facilities at Your Destination
Familiarize yourself with the medical facilities available at your destination. This can include general medical services, emergency medical services, and access to laboratory testing if your team has asked you to monitor that while away. Having this information on hand provides peace of mind and quick access to medical assistance if needed.
Adjust Your Diet Accordingly
Travel often involves changes in diet and eating habits. If you have dietary restrictions due to kidney disease, plan your meals carefully. Look for restaurants that offer kidney-friendly options and communicate your dietary needs to accommodation providers, especially if you have specific dietary requirements.
Protect Yourself from Infections
Kidney disease can compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently, carrying hand sanitizer, and avoiding contact with sick individuals. Consider getting vaccinated against preventable diseases before traveling.
Manage Stress
Traveling can be stressful, and stress can impact kidney function. Plan your itinerary with relaxation in mind, allow for downtime, and prioritize self-care. Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as meditation or gentle exercise into your travel routine.
Stay Informed About Time Zones
If traveling across time zones, work with your healthcare team to adjust your medication schedule accordingly. Maintaining consistency in your medication routine helps support stable kidney function, even as you adjust to changes in time zones.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can exacerbate kidney issues, and travel-related factors such as long flights or exposure to different climates can contribute to fluid loss. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Invest in Travel Insurance
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including those related to your kidney condition. Verify the specifics of the coverage, ensuring it addresses your unique health needs during the trip. Make sure to fully disclose all pre-existing conditions. Sometimes people are hesitant to do so because the cost goes up, but if you don’t, it is very likely the insurance will be void if something happens.
Listen to Your Body
Pay close attention to how your body responds to travel-related stressors and changes. If you experience any unusual symptoms or discomfort, seek medical attention promptly. Being proactive and attentive to your body’s signals can help prevent complications.
Dialysis Patients: Plan Well in Advance
Hemodialysis Patients
If you are on hemodialysis, contact your preferred dialysis unit at your desired destination at least three months before you wish to travel (the further ahead the better). Do not book your travel until the visiting dialysis unit tells you it is ok. It is important they have space and can meet your medical needs. BC Renal has a helpful handout, Hemodialysis and Traveling — Patients Living in British Columbia Who Want to Travel (In or Outside BC), which serves as a step-by-step guide and includes contact information for dialysis units within and outside BC.
Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
If you are on peritoneal dialysis (PD), contact your PD program and the supplies vendor in advance of your trip: four weeks within Canada, six weeks within the US, and 3-4 months for international destinations. Confirm that your destination can receive your supplies prior to arrival. You will be required to pack your PD cycler in a hard case and bring it to the destination along with a couple of days’ supplies to carry you over. Have your nephrologist sign a BC Renal Travel Letter and carry it with you. If you are travelling by plane, make sure you read and use the BC Renal Before You Fly document. All the BC Renal documents are available at bcrenal.ca.
Traveling with kidney disease requires careful planning and consideration, but it should not deter you from exploring the world. By consulting with your healthcare team, planning ahead for medications and supplies, and taking proactive steps to protect your health, you can embark on a safe and enjoyable journey. With the right precautions and a bit of extra preparation, individuals with kidney disease can travel confidently, making the most of their adventures while prioritizing their wellbeing.